What is the difference between a medical doctor and a nurse practitioner?

Nurse practitioners (NPs) are registered nurses who have expanded their experience with continuing education and training to increase their scope of practice. They are qualified to diagnose and treat common health conditions, prescribe medications, and perform physical examinations. Medical doctors (MDs) are physicians who have completed medical school and residency training. They are qualified to diagnose and treat a wide range of health conditions, perform surgeries, and prescribe medications.

Why is sharing my medical history so important during a general consultation?

Your medical history is the foundation of your care. It provides crucial context for your NP to understand your current health and potential risks. Past illnesses, surgeries, chronic conditions, medications (including over-the-counter and supplements), allergies, and family history all contribute to a complete picture of your health. Even seemingly small details can be relevant, so be prepared to share as much information as possible.

How can I best prepare for my general consultation?

Preparation is key for a productive consultation. Gather your medical history, including past illnesses, surgeries, chronic conditions, and medications. Make a list of all medications and supplements you take, including dosages. Also, prepare a list of questions you have for your NP. Thinking about your health goals beforehand can also be beneficial.

Well Child Examinations Clinic in Whitby

Well Child Examinations

This is a wellness exam looking at growth and development and making sure the child is meeting their developmental milestones for their age (0-12 yrs old.)

This is a 45-60min in-person Health Care Centre appointment for children from age of 2 months to 12 years old. This includes a detailed history and physical exam addressing if immunizations are up to date and making sure that the child is meeting their developmental milestones.

Well Child Examinations - $150 (60 min appt.)

Stephanie was a new mother and was always concerned about her child's health. She knew that regular checkups were important for Bobby's growth and development. So, she made sure to schedule regular well-child exams with his Nurse Practitioner.

At each well-child exam, Bobby's NP would check his height and weight, as well as his motor skills, speech development, and overall health. Stephanie would also use this time to ask questions and express any concerns she had about Bobby's health.

During one of Bobby's well-child exams, the NP noticed that Bobby was behind on some of his developmental milestones. Stephanie was worried but was relieved that they caught it early. The NP referred them to a pediatrician or specialist, who provided Bobby with the necessary support to reach his developmental goals.

Another time, during Bobby's well-child exam, Stephanie mentioned that she was concerned about his eating habits. The pediatrician was able to provide guidance and education on proper nutrition for Bobby's age group. Stephanie was able to implement the recommended changes and noticed a significant improvement in Bobby's eating habits.

Through regular well-child exams, Stephanie was able to establish a medical home for Bobby. She felt confident that she was providing the best care possible for her child, and Bobby's health and development continued to thrive.

In the end, Stephanie realized how crucial well-child exams were for Bobby's health and development. She made sure to never miss an appointment, knowing that regular checkups with his NP or pediatrician were a crucial part of his overall well-being.

Book an Appointment

(289) 404-4763

FAQ: Consultation

What is the difference between a medical doctor and a nurse practitioner?
Nurse practitioners (NPs) are registered nurses who have expanded their experience with continuing education and training to increase their scope of practice. They are qualified to diagnose and treat common health conditions, prescribe medications, and perform physical examinations. Medical doctors (MDs) are physicians who have completed medical school and residency training. They are qualified to diagnose and treat a wide range of health conditions, perform surgeries, and prescribe medications.
Why is sharing my medical history so important during a general consultation?
Your medical history is the foundation of your care. It provides crucial context for your NP to understand your current health and potential risks. Past illnesses, surgeries, chronic conditions, medications (including over-the-counter and supplements), allergies, and family history all contribute to a complete picture of your health. Even seemingly small details can be relevant, so be prepared to share as much information as possible.
How can I best prepare for my general consultation?
Preparation is key for a productive consultation. Gather your medical history, including past illnesses, surgeries, chronic conditions, and medications. Make a list of all medications and supplements you take, including dosages. Also, prepare a list of questions you have for your NP. Thinking about your health goals beforehand can also be beneficial.